If you’re planning a vacation in the UK you could be finding it difficult to decide on where to go or what to see. The UK is home to a lot of remarkable locations, that are packed with heritage, picturesque landscapes and cultural attractions. There are many places in the UK that are great for the older traveler. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or to get involved in activities, Acorn Stairlifts has listed their top 5 destinations and highlight what you can do there.
The Cotswold
The Cotwolds stretches across 6 counties within the South West of England. It’s the birth place of Prime Minister Winston Churchill and it’s where Beatrix Potter had taken inspiration in writing her book ‘The Tailor of Gloucester’. The Cotswold is known for its old-fashioned villages and houses.
There are enchanting homes and castles in which you can visit, including Sudeley Castle which was famously owned by Henry VIII’s last wife Katherine Parr. Katherine Parr was buried within the ground of the castle and you visit where she lies. You can also visit Rodmarton Manor where you can enjoy its very interesting architecture. All the materials used to build Rodmarton Manor were locally sourced and handcrafted by craftsmen in the area.
If you enjoy the outdoors, then there is a great number of trails in which you can follow as part of group or on your own. There are many different walks to suit many different abilities, whether you want a long distance or shorter distance detour. You’re are also never far from a village to take breaks in.
If you can’t decide on what village that you’d like to visit than why not consider The Cotswold Way National Trail? It stretches to over 102 miles and weaves in between hills. You can walk the entire way while stopping off in villages overnight.
The Lake District
The Lake District is located North West of England and is a chosen destination for many residents in the UK who want to escape the big cities and enjoy the outdoors, surrounded by nothing but nature and small villages.
The Lakes tends to host many country shows and festivals through the year such as markets, and film festivals, which can make your trip extra special. There’s something to suit all hobbies. You can also tour the Lakes Distillery and see how Whisky, Vodka and Gin in produced on the premises.
If you enjoy the outdoors and fancy putting on your walking boots. There are many walking trails to suit all abilities and time scales. Why not take a picnic up to one of the mountains and enjoy the views below with a sandwich and a cup of tea? You can also take boat rides across the Lakes to see the landscape from a different point of view.
The Northern Irish Coast
Consider visiting the North Irish Coast as it has a lot to offer. It’s quite close to Belfast so if you’re concerned about accommodation then consider staying in Belfast as it has a well-organized transport system running in and out of the city and close to the sites you will like to see.
You can visit Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, which was built by fisherman in 1755 to connect the mainland to a tiny island. What’s interesting about this bridge is it’s suspended 30 metres above sea level so if you’re up with testing your fear factor than this would be ideal for you. It’s also near Giant’s Causeway in which you can also visit. The attraction is a result of an ancient volcanic eruption but there’s tales about it being built by an Irish Giant who wanted to reach a Scottish Giant who he wanted to fight.
You can also visit Dark Hedges which is an avenue of Beech trees that date by to the 18th century and makes an amazing backdrop of a walk in the country or for some memorable photos. It’s also famous from the hit TV series Game of Thrones.
The Highlands
The Highlands is located in Scotland and offers a range of breath-taking views or picturesque moments. Scotland is small compared to most European countries and there are many transport links which allow you to see a lot within a short space of time.
The West Highland Line train runs between Glasgow, Oban, Fort William and more. You can see rugged mountains, rich greenery and other scenes that you’d only spot in the countryside.
If enjoy trips to the sea than you’ll love Moray Firth, which is located North and East of Inverness. It’s populated by 130 bottlenose dolphins in which you can take boat trips to get up and close with the creatures, along with other marine mammals such as seals, porpoises and whales.
Consider visiting the Capital Edinburgh, that is a beautiful city with a lot to other. There are many quirky tours around the city and you can visit the zoo that is home to the UK’s only Giant Panda. Edinburgh also plays host to the world’s largest art and culture festival called Fringe.
Cornwall
Cornwall is located South West England and people tend to go there as it gains the highest temperature compared to most other UK locations. You’ll find a lot of fisherman villages around Cornwall such as Fowey, Falmouth and St Ives, which is famous for its surf beaches.
You can explore history through the Larges World Heritage Sites, in Cornwall. It’s a collection of ten places that represent Cornish Mining. Take a tour thought Carnglaze Slate Caverns which is made up of three huge caverns that played a part in Cornwall’s slate mining industry. You could also visit Morwellham Quay which will take you back to the Victorian era with a copper mine, farm, railway and museum.
If you visit Cornwall then it’s recommended to visit the Eden Project. The Eden Project is made up of two biomes, which simulates a rain forest environment and a Mediterranean climate. You can find Flora of all shapes and sizes, which wouldn’t usually be found anywhere else in England. You can take elevated paths that brings you to the top of treetops which you can walk amongst and you’ll find a waterfall that’s made up from rain water collected by the biome.
If you appreciate gardens than take sea trip to St Michael’s Mount, which you’ll find a range of blossoms and herbs.
The UK offers a great range of attraction that shouldn’t be missed. It offers something for everyone, whether you looking to test your adrenaline or enjoy memorable walks in the country.